No comment necessary. :)
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Yet another Black Widow cool moment
From Captain America 36:
Here Natasha, clearly a bit irked, reminds the new Cap that yes-she-needs-resuing-but-is-still-damn-cool Sharon Carter is more than just the old Cap's girlfriend.
Here Natasha, clearly a bit irked, reminds the new Cap that yes-she-needs-resuing-but-is-still-damn-cool Sharon Carter is more than just the old Cap's girlfriend.
Monday, April 28, 2008
And the search for meaning (or maybe not) goes on.
Still too sick to think or write, but if you go to the DC Universe Message Board you can find a discussion of Countdown as an existentialist text.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
More comics?
I'm enjoying the hopefully-last cold of the season (it's snowing today so I hope it's the end of the season!), so the brain isn't up to actual thought today, but I think we will probably be getting The Adventures of Supergirl in the Eighth Grade. For the nine-year-old, of course.
It's hard to judge a comic from the art (which is cute), but the concept itself is appealing.
It's hard to judge a comic from the art (which is cute), but the concept itself is appealing.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Because I have nothing to say tonight...
...I asked the kids for some help. They were playing with the action figures tonight, so I asked them each their top three favorite, most playable figures.
The thirteen-year-old says:
1. Batgirl
2. Psylocke
3. Sentry
The nine-year-old says:
1. Phoenix
2. Black Widow
3. Nightcrawler
They also like Patriot "except he has giant feet!" So, I pointed out, does Nightcrawler. But the nine-year-old assures me that they are "cooler feet." (He is also missing a head and a tail--they're taped on but always fall off. This, apparently, has no effect on his playability.)
Bendability is of the greatest importance.
They also consider removable clothing a plus (like Reed Richards' lab coat and Gambit's trenchcoat).
The thirteen-year-old says:
1. Batgirl
2. Psylocke
3. Sentry
The nine-year-old says:
1. Phoenix
2. Black Widow
3. Nightcrawler
They also like Patriot "except he has giant feet!" So, I pointed out, does Nightcrawler. But the nine-year-old assures me that they are "cooler feet." (He is also missing a head and a tail--they're taped on but always fall off. This, apparently, has no effect on his playability.)
Bendability is of the greatest importance.
They also consider removable clothing a plus (like Reed Richards' lab coat and Gambit's trenchcoat).
Friday, April 25, 2008
The lazy woman's approach to comics and the internet
1. I know a lot of folks don't care much for Newsarama. Personally I like it fine, but then I'm not going there looking for all of my comic internet addiction needs. I think it fills its particular niche well.
2. And one of the things I do enjoy there is the regularly-scehduled comic book promotions aimed at keeping up the readers' interest. I don't read them all, just the ones focused on titles of particular interest to me for whatever reason. And, as I mention in the just-linked post, they seem to serve that purpose--I kept on being interested in what was coming up next in Countdown right up until the end.
By the way, there's a new regularly-scheduled promo up for Captain America. Not that I need any encouragement whatsoever to keep buying that book, but I still enjoy the advance peek into the next issue. They've had the feature for quite a while, some variation on the "Captain America is still dead" theme, but haven't always done the preview pages, and that's kind of neat as well--here the images are black and white, with no dialogue of course, which is suppose is the bare minimum of spoiling you can do, and it's cool. (Next month's looks excellent, by the way--it'll be good to see more of the Falcon.)
I'm also a fan of previews but would probably be more of one if I actually bought my comics from a store every week--by which I mean that in that case I'd be a better target for that sort of marketing. As it is, this stuff doesn't necessarily affect my purchasing. I preorder online and get my books in the mail. So while an occasional preview might get me to order that book as a back issue when it becomes available, or at least to keep an eye out for the trade eventually, for the most part I don't seem to bother.
I read features and interviews if they're to do with a book I'm already interested in, and I read them if they're about an upcoming book that sounds good. Since these often take place far in advance of a title being solicited, that bit of marketing works pretty well on me.
3. See, I don't read my comics with all that critical of an eye, and by that I mean that I tend to go into them assuming I'll like them. Generally, I do. If I find that I'm not enjoying a book I'll give it some time to pick up, but I'll eventually drop it--I dropped Iron Man and apparently that's generally considered to be quite good, but I found myself being put to sleep by it. (I'm sure it doesn't help that the character doesn't appeal to me as much as he used to, post-Civil War.) If I weren't actually spending money on them, I'd probably give them longer before giving up.
4. And as for the comic internet, well, I pretty much read it all. (All the stuff that includes discussion of superheroes. I don't read the manga-oriented blogs, or those that focus solely on independent titles, because I don't tend to read those.) The lengthy detailed reviews and the two-liners, the picture posts and the opinion pieces, the liberal and the conservative comic readers, the erudite and the grammatically-challenged, the safe and the controversial, the jaded old fans and the bright sparkling newbies. One thing this means is that I have 158 comic-related feeds in my Bloglines, and I don't read all of them every day. (I tend to sit down for a few hours on the weekend and catch up.) Of course there are some sites I make a point of reading every day, and no, I'm not going to name them. :)
2. And one of the things I do enjoy there is the regularly-scehduled comic book promotions aimed at keeping up the readers' interest. I don't read them all, just the ones focused on titles of particular interest to me for whatever reason. And, as I mention in the just-linked post, they seem to serve that purpose--I kept on being interested in what was coming up next in Countdown right up until the end.
By the way, there's a new regularly-scheduled promo up for Captain America. Not that I need any encouragement whatsoever to keep buying that book, but I still enjoy the advance peek into the next issue. They've had the feature for quite a while, some variation on the "Captain America is still dead" theme, but haven't always done the preview pages, and that's kind of neat as well--here the images are black and white, with no dialogue of course, which is suppose is the bare minimum of spoiling you can do, and it's cool. (Next month's looks excellent, by the way--it'll be good to see more of the Falcon.)
I'm also a fan of previews but would probably be more of one if I actually bought my comics from a store every week--by which I mean that in that case I'd be a better target for that sort of marketing. As it is, this stuff doesn't necessarily affect my purchasing. I preorder online and get my books in the mail. So while an occasional preview might get me to order that book as a back issue when it becomes available, or at least to keep an eye out for the trade eventually, for the most part I don't seem to bother.
I read features and interviews if they're to do with a book I'm already interested in, and I read them if they're about an upcoming book that sounds good. Since these often take place far in advance of a title being solicited, that bit of marketing works pretty well on me.
3. See, I don't read my comics with all that critical of an eye, and by that I mean that I tend to go into them assuming I'll like them. Generally, I do. If I find that I'm not enjoying a book I'll give it some time to pick up, but I'll eventually drop it--I dropped Iron Man and apparently that's generally considered to be quite good, but I found myself being put to sleep by it. (I'm sure it doesn't help that the character doesn't appeal to me as much as he used to, post-Civil War.) If I weren't actually spending money on them, I'd probably give them longer before giving up.
4. And as for the comic internet, well, I pretty much read it all. (All the stuff that includes discussion of superheroes. I don't read the manga-oriented blogs, or those that focus solely on independent titles, because I don't tend to read those.) The lengthy detailed reviews and the two-liners, the picture posts and the opinion pieces, the liberal and the conservative comic readers, the erudite and the grammatically-challenged, the safe and the controversial, the jaded old fans and the bright sparkling newbies. One thing this means is that I have 158 comic-related feeds in my Bloglines, and I don't read all of them every day. (I tend to sit down for a few hours on the weekend and catch up.) Of course there are some sites I make a point of reading every day, and no, I'm not going to name them. :)
Thursday, April 24, 2008
I fall prey to temptation so easily
Unsurprisingly, I did decide to preorder that Bucky/Cap action figure after all. Mainly because I knew I'd be kicking myself eventually if I didn't. And if he's too tall he can sit in the back.
I haven't been acquiring as many action figures as I used to. Part of this is because we have so many now, and even if some of them are on the injured list, a little duct tape means that most of them are still playable if you're careful. You know, like being careful not to lean Ms. Marvel over because her head tends to fall off. (Is that a sign that she might be a skrull?) I keep meaning to learn action figure repair but so far I find the information I've found online to be rather daunting. It's a lot more involved than putting new hair in Barbie dolls!
Certainly, we already have so many of the characters we'd want that there aren't a lot of must-haves among the newer ones. (I will confess that we have multiple Iron Men, but it's hard to resist the armor.) I'm semi-tempted by Tigra and Union Jack but I don't know that I'll get them--so many of the Hasbro Marvel Legends (such as the Golden Age Bucky, and of course the infamous Emma Frost) just haven't been that attractive.
But we also just have so many figures, period. The thirteen-year-old did a quick head count and there are about 99. At some point you simply run out of room.
So I don't think I'll be doing as many action figure posts as I used to because, well, we've got enough, and I'll be limiting my purchases to those figures I really want. Like the shiny-suited Cap. (And if they ever do make a Winter Soldier, that's coming home, believe you me!)
I haven't been acquiring as many action figures as I used to. Part of this is because we have so many now, and even if some of them are on the injured list, a little duct tape means that most of them are still playable if you're careful. You know, like being careful not to lean Ms. Marvel over because her head tends to fall off. (Is that a sign that she might be a skrull?) I keep meaning to learn action figure repair but so far I find the information I've found online to be rather daunting. It's a lot more involved than putting new hair in Barbie dolls!
Certainly, we already have so many of the characters we'd want that there aren't a lot of must-haves among the newer ones. (I will confess that we have multiple Iron Men, but it's hard to resist the armor.) I'm semi-tempted by Tigra and Union Jack but I don't know that I'll get them--so many of the Hasbro Marvel Legends (such as the Golden Age Bucky, and of course the infamous Emma Frost) just haven't been that attractive.
But we also just have so many figures, period. The thirteen-year-old did a quick head count and there are about 99. At some point you simply run out of room.
So I don't think I'll be doing as many action figure posts as I used to because, well, we've got enough, and I'll be limiting my purchases to those figures I really want. Like the shiny-suited Cap. (And if they ever do make a Winter Soldier, that's coming home, believe you me!)
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Truth in captioning
Yes, "Yahoo!" is indeed a terrible battle cry. I know it's the 1940s, boys, but surely you could have come up with something better?
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Anticipating the Countdown Jones
You know, I'm going to miss Countdown.
Not so much the book--well, that too, although since I'm still expecting the last four issues in this month's Big Box O' Comics I'm not really missing it yet. I'm going to miss, of all things, the hype.
And I know how this is going to sound*, but what the hell.
Since I only get my comics once a month, I don't worry much about being spoiled. I don't necessarily seek out spoilers, but neither do I avoid them. And not avoiding them was amazingly easy for Countdown.
Wednesdays? Someone somewhere would eventually be talking about that week's issue.
And Fridays? That's when Newsarama would post it's weekly column on the title, discussing the past week's issue with the creators, and posting a few pages from the issue to come.
Seriously, that's genius. There's very little possibility of losing interest when new info is available so often. I don't remember if they did that for 52. (Once I got started I was going to keep buying 52 anyway.) But Trinity? The one of the three weeklies I'm by far least enthused about in advance? The one I'm maybe going to skip around buying, depending on who's in the second feature? Well, something like that would go a long way toward keeping me buying it regularly. (I mean, if I didn't have to order them a few months ahead of time. But you know what I mean.)
* It is going to sound as if I am weak and easily manipulated, which to some extent may be true. :)
Not so much the book--well, that too, although since I'm still expecting the last four issues in this month's Big Box O' Comics I'm not really missing it yet. I'm going to miss, of all things, the hype.
And I know how this is going to sound*, but what the hell.
Since I only get my comics once a month, I don't worry much about being spoiled. I don't necessarily seek out spoilers, but neither do I avoid them. And not avoiding them was amazingly easy for Countdown.
Wednesdays? Someone somewhere would eventually be talking about that week's issue.
And Fridays? That's when Newsarama would post it's weekly column on the title, discussing the past week's issue with the creators, and posting a few pages from the issue to come.
Seriously, that's genius. There's very little possibility of losing interest when new info is available so often. I don't remember if they did that for 52. (Once I got started I was going to keep buying 52 anyway.) But Trinity? The one of the three weeklies I'm by far least enthused about in advance? The one I'm maybe going to skip around buying, depending on who's in the second feature? Well, something like that would go a long way toward keeping me buying it regularly. (I mean, if I didn't have to order them a few months ahead of time. But you know what I mean.)
* It is going to sound as if I am weak and easily manipulated, which to some extent may be true. :)
Monday, April 21, 2008
Not for me, thank you
I've got to admit that Marvel Apes is about the least interesting thing I've seen coming through on the NYCC news.
And this is from someone who kind of used to dig the Red Ghost's super apes.
But if the kids want it, we will get it.
Assuming, of course, that it's kid-friendly. Because, why would you have apes that aren't?
And this is from someone who kind of used to dig the Red Ghost's super apes.
But if the kids want it, we will get it.
Assuming, of course, that it's kid-friendly. Because, why would you have apes that aren't?
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Some good news
I've been skimming the NYCC coverage at Newsarama, and have seen two things there that have me skipping for joy.
1. Power Girl comic coming up.
2. Secret Six comic coming up.
I'm not sure which I am looking forward to more!
1. Power Girl comic coming up.
2. Secret Six comic coming up.
I'm not sure which I am looking forward to more!
Saturday, April 19, 2008
No, really?
The return of Steve Rogers and his shocked realization of what has happened since his death.
(Actually this is Golden Age Cap who has just found a clue to his constantly-kidnapped sidekick's whereabouts--Bucky's cap, the kind one wears on one's head--but it made me giggle so here it is.)
Friday, April 18, 2008
Looking better all the time
You know, if they keep showing those darn Iron Man movie commercials I might actually have to consider seeing it in a theater. And it's been years since I've seen a movie in a theater (what can I say, Joe vs. the Volcano was a traumatic experience).
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Carol, honey, I think you need a bigger uniform...
Everyone's talking about the newly-solicited Ms. Marvel 29, specifically the cover. (You can see it here.) Some people like it, some people can't stand it, some people think it's funny. I'm probably in the latter camp more than anything, although I'll say that if I weren't already a Ms. Marvel reader, this cover would not incline me to pick it up because it doesn't seem particularly representative.
A couple of things come to mind. One is that I always find it surprising when people say they won't buy a comic because of the cover. Not the folks who aren't buying it as something of a protest, because I certainly support the whole voting-by-dollar idea. But some folks won't buy a cheesecake-y cover because of the embarrassment factor--wouldn't want to be seen buying it, wouldn't want to be seen reading it. Maybe I'm an irredeemable comic geek, or maybe I just don't care that much about the covers of the books I read, but I've never seen a cover yet that would keep me from buying it if the insides were good, or that would keep me from reading it in public. (Not that I read comics in public much, since they come to my house in a nice box. But, you know, back in the old days. :))
The other is that, although there is a definite doofiness to it, this is in fact the most I've liked a Ms. Marvel cover in a long time. You want to know why? Because you can actually see her eyes! Just about every other cover has featured her with those phenomenally creepy blank eyes in the mask. So just the presence of an iris and pupil are enough to make me happy.
A couple of things come to mind. One is that I always find it surprising when people say they won't buy a comic because of the cover. Not the folks who aren't buying it as something of a protest, because I certainly support the whole voting-by-dollar idea. But some folks won't buy a cheesecake-y cover because of the embarrassment factor--wouldn't want to be seen buying it, wouldn't want to be seen reading it. Maybe I'm an irredeemable comic geek, or maybe I just don't care that much about the covers of the books I read, but I've never seen a cover yet that would keep me from buying it if the insides were good, or that would keep me from reading it in public. (Not that I read comics in public much, since they come to my house in a nice box. But, you know, back in the old days. :))
The other is that, although there is a definite doofiness to it, this is in fact the most I've liked a Ms. Marvel cover in a long time. You want to know why? Because you can actually see her eyes! Just about every other cover has featured her with those phenomenally creepy blank eyes in the mask. So just the presence of an iris and pupil are enough to make me happy.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
What I Want: The July 08 Marvel Solicitations
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #564
It's a good old fashioned He Said/He Said/He Said when Spidey, Vin Gonzales and SWING SHIFT Heavy OVERDRIVE find themselves in a car chase across the Big Apple! Three members of our Braintrust's best give you each side of the same story, as Gale, Guggenheim and Slott team up for “TRAFFIC JAM!”
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #565
Her name is . She's Spider-Man's newest and most terrifying nemesis -- and she just discovered his secret identity. With an army of villains at her command, even with the help of Daredevil, can Spidey protect his secret identity from his new foe? Find out as Marc Guggenheim and Phil Jimenez give you the fight of Spidey’s life against the Brand New !
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #566
With an army of Villains at her command, the Brand New has Spider-Man on the run. Even with the help of Daredevil, can Spidey protect his secret identity from his new foe? And with Spidey’s roommate, Vin Gonzales, as a hostage, how much time does he have? ’s hunt continues!
For the thirteen-year-old. (And, apparently, a solicitation that never made it to final edit?)
AVENGERS/INVADERS #3 (of 12)
The King of Atlantis vs the Prince of Atlantis with an entire kingdom as the ultimate prize. Alex Ross, Jim Krueger and Steve Sadowski continue the year’s most surprising cross-time epic with a battle that promises to tear two centuries asunder. Plus, more clues to the mystery of just how the Invaders landed in 2008!
Namor vs. Namor is one of the things I've most been looking forward to in this series, so yes, you could say I'm happy to see this. :)
CAPTAIN AMERICA #40
It's Cap versus Cap for the future of the American Dream as the Red Skull looks on in laughter! And Bucky learns the true identity of the man behind the other mask! The epic Death of Captain America continues in Part Four of "The Man Who Bought America" by the acclaimed team of Brubaker and Epting.
Looks good, as always.
CAPTAIN AMERICA: WHITE #0
CAPTAIN AMERICA: WHITE is their newest creation, peeling back an untold tale of Captain America and Bucky during World War II. Their unique combination of in-depth characters and high stakes action shines here with Cap's deadliest mission of all. Marvel is proud to bring you Captain America: #0 this summer as a taste of what’s to come. Featuring an all new full story about the Origin of Bucky Barnes and how he came into Cap’s life, this special edition features a cover gallery, sketchbook, script samples, and an interview with the creators. They are happy to be back at Marvel and we're thrilled to have them! Plus, the whole story seen in black-and-white.
This could be awesomely good, but I'll hold off judgment until I've got it in hand.
THE LAST DEFENDERS #5 (of 6)
It's finally come down to this -- literally the last Defender standing, as Kyle Richmond goes head-to-head with his past, his present AND his future...! And Yandroth is right there to exploit all three of them! And...at long last: Dr. Strange! The Hulk! Namor, the Sub-Mariner! Together again...for the first time! Plus, the Squadron Sinister! All this...and a last page that will leave you shell-shocked!
It still looks all right, and I'm hardly likely to quit a mini before it's done.
MARVEL ADVENTURES THE AVENGERS #26
It's the bottom of the ninth, the Avengers are down by two, two strikes down and bases loaded. The stakes for the Cosmic Pennant have never been higher. How will Galactus call this one? Okay... we admit. We have no idea what's going on in this story. Kirk drew the cover, and now Parker has to come up with something. THAT'S GOOD COMICS!!!
For the nine-year-old, but we all read it. :)
MOON KNIGHT #20
Special extra-sized issue illustrated by Mike Deodato (AMAZING SPIDER-MAN, NEW AVENGERS) and guest-starring Werewolf By Night! In the aftermath of the Black Spectre debacle, Moon Knight is Public Enemy Number One, a fugitive from justice. But that’s not his only problem. Something awful is happening in the dank basement below Club Lu’Pine. Blood-smeared walls raked by claws tell half the story. To know the whole truth, Moon Knight will have to step into the arena and stare down a creature fueled by instinct and fury. To survive, he must become what he faces.
Well...I'm thinking the book is probably all right and I'll be getting it, but if I weren't a regular reader this sure wouldn't get me to buy it. "To survive, he must become what he faces"? Doesn't that sort of thing only really work with a protaganist who isn't already working the creepy angle?
PATSY WALKER: HELLCAT, AGENT OF THE INITIATIVE #1 (of 5)
Patsy Walker, S.H.I.E.L.D. wants YOU to join the Initiative…and protect the frozen north. You heard me right, sister. The Klondike. Seward’s Folly. Alaska. So pack some long johns and prepare for trouble. GUEST-STARRING: IRON MAN!
Hellcat was an Avenger during one of my favorite Avenging eras, so this is a must.
SECRET INVASION #4 (of 8)
The world has turned upside down! The Skrulls have taken the Earth as part of their empire, the Avengers and Initiative are scattered...but there are two people who want some answers. One has a hammer and one has a shield.
There are Young Avengers on this cover!
MIGHTY AVENGERS #16
SECRET INVASION TIE-IN!
ELEKTRA IS A SKRULL!! Words that have echoed through Marvel Comics for the last two years. But how did this happen and for how long has this been true? THE ANSWER IS HERE! Hint! She went down swinging. Plus the answer to the biggest question in modern Avengers history...
I don't think I quite needed the "Secret Invasion Tie-In" blurb on this one...
NEW AVENGERS #43
SPIDER-MAN VERSUS CAPTAIN AMERICA IN THE JUNGLES OF THE SAVAGE LAND! But who is who and what is what?? At least one of these people isn't who they say they are. Plus a huge chapter in the Secret Invasion story as more information as to how the Skrulls set their major plans in motion is revealed...
Meh. Looks readable.
AVENGERS: THE INITIATIVE #15
With the NEW AVENGERS and the MIGHTY AVENGERS trapped in the Savage Land, it's up to the AVENGERS INITIATIVE to face off against the first major strike of the Skrull Invasion! There, on the field of battle, the cadet with the biggest secret has to choose how red (or green) his blood really is. Heroes will fall. Heroes will die. And one shall rise. All THIS and: A new cowardly low for ANT-MAN! A new danger for WAR MACHINE! And 3-D MAN gains a "killer" new "krew"!
It has Ant-Man, that's all I care about. :still missing Irredeemable:
SECRET INVASION: FRONT LINE #1 (of 5)
As Skrull warships fill the skies, and heroes battle for their very survival in the Savage Land, the citizens of New York struggle to survive the worst day of their lives. Brian Reed (CAPTAIN MARVEL) and Marco Castiello bring you a stunning ground-level look at Secret Invasion!
I'm actually kind of torn on this one, but will probably get it.
SECRET INVASION: RUNAWAYS/YOUNG AVENGERS #2 (of 3)
Things look bleak for the future of the Marvel Universe. Xavin has turned on the Runaways. Hulkling is out of commission. Can the rest of the Runaways and Young Avengers keep it together? Heck, can they survive?
We do pick up just about everything with the Young Avenger in it, so this is on the list.
CAPTAIN BRITAIN AND MI 13 #3
SECRET INVASION TIE-IN, PART 3 (of 4)
It’s Science Fiction versus Fantasy as the war machines of the unstoppable Skrull army invade the magical realm of Avalon. Can Pete Wisdom and the rest of MI 13 keep the Skrulls from taking control of the world’s magic? Will this be our heroes’ finest hour? Or has the sun finally set on the British Isles? And what is Spitfire doing to that Skrull on the cover?
Well, I've got a few good guesses about Spitfire (having read both a good deal of both the original Invaders and the New Invaders titles).
MS. MARVEL #29
SECRET INVASION continues here! Intergalactic war comes to the streets of Manhattan! As Ms. Marvel stands alone before the Skrull invasion, she must find the warrior within and stop an army of invincible killers!
Collagen much? (Though the lush lips on cover-girl Carol do distract a bit from the rack.) The cover is a different look for this title. The story sounds all right.
SHE-HULK #31
SECRET INVASION tie-in and X-FACTOR crossover issue! It’s double the trouble as our gamma-ray glamazon finds herself on a collision course with the mystery-solving X-Factor and hip-deep in the Skrull infestation! What does She-Hulk’s partner Jazinda – who just happens to be a Skrull – know about the invasion…and is she part of it? And why has writer Peter David pitted the heroes of his two books against one another? All the answers are waiting for you here…and so is an exciting new art team!
I don't mind the Secret Invasion thing (as I'm reading that) but am hoping the X-Factor connection disappears quickly.
YOUNG X-MEN #4
“NEW GENESIS,” part 4 (of 5)
It’s the Young X-Men vs. the Hellfire Club! Will the kids survive? Marc Guggenheim (AMAZING SPIDER-MAN, WOLVERINE, Eli Stone) and Yanick Paquette (ULTIMATE X-MEN) pack more surprises than you can handle into this issue. Do not miss this!
Not much to say on this one yet.
INVADERS CLASSIC VOL. 2 TPB
After their first several sagas of success, the Invaders spread across the world to discover new friends and new foes, plus the ever-present question of which is which! Introducing Spitfire! Warrior Woman! The Golem! The Blue Bullet! The Spirit of '76! Agent Axis! Plus: genuine Golden Age villains not seen in decades! Crusaders, Avengers and Destroyers – all for you in '42! Collecting INVADERS #10-21 and ANNUAL #1.
If I was prone to squealing, I would be doing it. :)
This last one is actually a maybe because it's awfully pricey, but I'm at least putting it on my "someday" list.
MARVEL MASTERWORKS: GOLDEN AGE CAPTAIN AMERICA VOL. 2 HC
From the heart of comics’ Golden Age come the earliest adventures of the greatest patriot to grace the four-color page: Captain America! Created on the eve of America’s entry into World War II, these stories are full of jaw-busting battles against the Nazi menace, mad scientists, crazed carnivals and mysteries at the ballpark that could only come from Joe Simon and Jack Kirby – two of the medium’s greatest visionaries! But there’s more to enjoy than just the adventures of Cap and Bucky; you’ll also meet Stan Lee’s wartime correspondent, “Headline” Hunter; the mighty Hurricane; Father Time; and Tuk, Cave Boy – and enjoy house ads, Sentinel of Liberty updates and puzzle pages in these complete and fully restored collections of the rarest hits from the Marvel archives!
Collecting CAPTAIN AMERICA COMICS #5-8.
It's a good old fashioned He Said/He Said/He Said when Spidey, Vin Gonzales and SWING SHIFT Heavy OVERDRIVE find themselves in a car chase across the Big Apple! Three members of our Braintrust's best give you each side of the same story, as Gale, Guggenheim and Slott team up for “TRAFFIC JAM!”
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #565
Her name is . She's Spider-Man's newest and most terrifying nemesis -- and she just discovered his secret identity. With an army of villains at her command, even with the help of Daredevil, can Spidey protect his secret identity from his new foe? Find out as Marc Guggenheim and Phil Jimenez give you the fight of Spidey’s life against the Brand New !
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #566
With an army of Villains at her command, the Brand New has Spider-Man on the run. Even with the help of Daredevil, can Spidey protect his secret identity from his new foe? And with Spidey’s roommate, Vin Gonzales, as a hostage, how much time does he have? ’s hunt continues!
For the thirteen-year-old. (And, apparently, a solicitation that never made it to final edit?)
AVENGERS/INVADERS #3 (of 12)
The King of Atlantis vs the Prince of Atlantis with an entire kingdom as the ultimate prize. Alex Ross, Jim Krueger and Steve Sadowski continue the year’s most surprising cross-time epic with a battle that promises to tear two centuries asunder. Plus, more clues to the mystery of just how the Invaders landed in 2008!
Namor vs. Namor is one of the things I've most been looking forward to in this series, so yes, you could say I'm happy to see this. :)
CAPTAIN AMERICA #40
It's Cap versus Cap for the future of the American Dream as the Red Skull looks on in laughter! And Bucky learns the true identity of the man behind the other mask! The epic Death of Captain America continues in Part Four of "The Man Who Bought America" by the acclaimed team of Brubaker and Epting.
Looks good, as always.
CAPTAIN AMERICA: WHITE #0
CAPTAIN AMERICA: WHITE is their newest creation, peeling back an untold tale of Captain America and Bucky during World War II. Their unique combination of in-depth characters and high stakes action shines here with Cap's deadliest mission of all. Marvel is proud to bring you Captain America: #0 this summer as a taste of what’s to come. Featuring an all new full story about the Origin of Bucky Barnes and how he came into Cap’s life, this special edition features a cover gallery, sketchbook, script samples, and an interview with the creators. They are happy to be back at Marvel and we're thrilled to have them! Plus, the whole story seen in black-and-white.
This could be awesomely good, but I'll hold off judgment until I've got it in hand.
THE LAST DEFENDERS #5 (of 6)
It's finally come down to this -- literally the last Defender standing, as Kyle Richmond goes head-to-head with his past, his present AND his future...! And Yandroth is right there to exploit all three of them! And...at long last: Dr. Strange! The Hulk! Namor, the Sub-Mariner! Together again...for the first time! Plus, the Squadron Sinister! All this...and a last page that will leave you shell-shocked!
It still looks all right, and I'm hardly likely to quit a mini before it's done.
MARVEL ADVENTURES THE AVENGERS #26
It's the bottom of the ninth, the Avengers are down by two, two strikes down and bases loaded. The stakes for the Cosmic Pennant have never been higher. How will Galactus call this one? Okay... we admit. We have no idea what's going on in this story. Kirk drew the cover, and now Parker has to come up with something. THAT'S GOOD COMICS!!!
For the nine-year-old, but we all read it. :)
MOON KNIGHT #20
Special extra-sized issue illustrated by Mike Deodato (AMAZING SPIDER-MAN, NEW AVENGERS) and guest-starring Werewolf By Night! In the aftermath of the Black Spectre debacle, Moon Knight is Public Enemy Number One, a fugitive from justice. But that’s not his only problem. Something awful is happening in the dank basement below Club Lu’Pine. Blood-smeared walls raked by claws tell half the story. To know the whole truth, Moon Knight will have to step into the arena and stare down a creature fueled by instinct and fury. To survive, he must become what he faces.
Well...I'm thinking the book is probably all right and I'll be getting it, but if I weren't a regular reader this sure wouldn't get me to buy it. "To survive, he must become what he faces"? Doesn't that sort of thing only really work with a protaganist who isn't already working the creepy angle?
PATSY WALKER: HELLCAT, AGENT OF THE INITIATIVE #1 (of 5)
Patsy Walker, S.H.I.E.L.D. wants YOU to join the Initiative…and protect the frozen north. You heard me right, sister. The Klondike. Seward’s Folly. Alaska. So pack some long johns and prepare for trouble. GUEST-STARRING: IRON MAN!
Hellcat was an Avenger during one of my favorite Avenging eras, so this is a must.
SECRET INVASION #4 (of 8)
The world has turned upside down! The Skrulls have taken the Earth as part of their empire, the Avengers and Initiative are scattered...but there are two people who want some answers. One has a hammer and one has a shield.
There are Young Avengers on this cover!
MIGHTY AVENGERS #16
SECRET INVASION TIE-IN!
ELEKTRA IS A SKRULL!! Words that have echoed through Marvel Comics for the last two years. But how did this happen and for how long has this been true? THE ANSWER IS HERE! Hint! She went down swinging. Plus the answer to the biggest question in modern Avengers history...
I don't think I quite needed the "Secret Invasion Tie-In" blurb on this one...
NEW AVENGERS #43
SPIDER-MAN VERSUS CAPTAIN AMERICA IN THE JUNGLES OF THE SAVAGE LAND! But who is who and what is what?? At least one of these people isn't who they say they are. Plus a huge chapter in the Secret Invasion story as more information as to how the Skrulls set their major plans in motion is revealed...
Meh. Looks readable.
AVENGERS: THE INITIATIVE #15
With the NEW AVENGERS and the MIGHTY AVENGERS trapped in the Savage Land, it's up to the AVENGERS INITIATIVE to face off against the first major strike of the Skrull Invasion! There, on the field of battle, the cadet with the biggest secret has to choose how red (or green) his blood really is. Heroes will fall. Heroes will die. And one shall rise. All THIS and: A new cowardly low for ANT-MAN! A new danger for WAR MACHINE! And 3-D MAN gains a "killer" new "krew"!
It has Ant-Man, that's all I care about. :still missing Irredeemable:
SECRET INVASION: FRONT LINE #1 (of 5)
As Skrull warships fill the skies, and heroes battle for their very survival in the Savage Land, the citizens of New York struggle to survive the worst day of their lives. Brian Reed (CAPTAIN MARVEL) and Marco Castiello bring you a stunning ground-level look at Secret Invasion!
I'm actually kind of torn on this one, but will probably get it.
SECRET INVASION: RUNAWAYS/YOUNG AVENGERS #2 (of 3)
Things look bleak for the future of the Marvel Universe. Xavin has turned on the Runaways. Hulkling is out of commission. Can the rest of the Runaways and Young Avengers keep it together? Heck, can they survive?
We do pick up just about everything with the Young Avenger in it, so this is on the list.
CAPTAIN BRITAIN AND MI 13 #3
SECRET INVASION TIE-IN, PART 3 (of 4)
It’s Science Fiction versus Fantasy as the war machines of the unstoppable Skrull army invade the magical realm of Avalon. Can Pete Wisdom and the rest of MI 13 keep the Skrulls from taking control of the world’s magic? Will this be our heroes’ finest hour? Or has the sun finally set on the British Isles? And what is Spitfire doing to that Skrull on the cover?
Well, I've got a few good guesses about Spitfire (having read both a good deal of both the original Invaders and the New Invaders titles).
MS. MARVEL #29
SECRET INVASION continues here! Intergalactic war comes to the streets of Manhattan! As Ms. Marvel stands alone before the Skrull invasion, she must find the warrior within and stop an army of invincible killers!
Collagen much? (Though the lush lips on cover-girl Carol do distract a bit from the rack.) The cover is a different look for this title. The story sounds all right.
SHE-HULK #31
SECRET INVASION tie-in and X-FACTOR crossover issue! It’s double the trouble as our gamma-ray glamazon finds herself on a collision course with the mystery-solving X-Factor and hip-deep in the Skrull infestation! What does She-Hulk’s partner Jazinda – who just happens to be a Skrull – know about the invasion…and is she part of it? And why has writer Peter David pitted the heroes of his two books against one another? All the answers are waiting for you here…and so is an exciting new art team!
I don't mind the Secret Invasion thing (as I'm reading that) but am hoping the X-Factor connection disappears quickly.
YOUNG X-MEN #4
“NEW GENESIS,” part 4 (of 5)
It’s the Young X-Men vs. the Hellfire Club! Will the kids survive? Marc Guggenheim (AMAZING SPIDER-MAN, WOLVERINE, Eli Stone) and Yanick Paquette (ULTIMATE X-MEN) pack more surprises than you can handle into this issue. Do not miss this!
Not much to say on this one yet.
INVADERS CLASSIC VOL. 2 TPB
After their first several sagas of success, the Invaders spread across the world to discover new friends and new foes, plus the ever-present question of which is which! Introducing Spitfire! Warrior Woman! The Golem! The Blue Bullet! The Spirit of '76! Agent Axis! Plus: genuine Golden Age villains not seen in decades! Crusaders, Avengers and Destroyers – all for you in '42! Collecting INVADERS #10-21 and ANNUAL #1.
If I was prone to squealing, I would be doing it. :)
This last one is actually a maybe because it's awfully pricey, but I'm at least putting it on my "someday" list.
MARVEL MASTERWORKS: GOLDEN AGE CAPTAIN AMERICA VOL. 2 HC
From the heart of comics’ Golden Age come the earliest adventures of the greatest patriot to grace the four-color page: Captain America! Created on the eve of America’s entry into World War II, these stories are full of jaw-busting battles against the Nazi menace, mad scientists, crazed carnivals and mysteries at the ballpark that could only come from Joe Simon and Jack Kirby – two of the medium’s greatest visionaries! But there’s more to enjoy than just the adventures of Cap and Bucky; you’ll also meet Stan Lee’s wartime correspondent, “Headline” Hunter; the mighty Hurricane; Father Time; and Tuk, Cave Boy – and enjoy house ads, Sentinel of Liberty updates and puzzle pages in these complete and fully restored collections of the rarest hits from the Marvel archives!
Collecting CAPTAIN AMERICA COMICS #5-8.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
What I Want: The July 08 DC Solicitations
TRINITY #5-9
In month two of TRINITY, Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman — alongside their Justice League teammates — cross paths with the mysterious Konvikt and learn more about their fated connection within the DC Universe!
This month’s co-features focus on Hawkman, Gangbuster, John Stewart and the intriguing new psychic known as Tarot!
Well, since I'm mainly interested in this because of the "co-features" I may not be getting them all (oh, who am I kidding?), and am pleased to see John Stewart on the list this time.
FINAL CRISIS #3
Batman missing in action! Superman immobilized! Green Lantern on trial for his life!
A shadow is falling across Earth’s super heroes — and now it’s Wonder Woman’s turn to face the Evil Gods!
What bizarre warning from beyond awaits Frankenstein, The Question and the agents of S.H.A.D.E. in the shadows of the Dark Side Club? What grim fate lies in store for The Human Flame? What happens when the Anti-Life Equation hits the internet? Can the Fastest Men Alive outrun The Black Racer — Death himself? And who are the Justifiers?
Wonder which Green Lantern is on trial for his life. I'm assuming Hal, because that's who they usually mean when they don't specify. And the Question, cool!
FINAL CRISIS: REQUIEM #1
A very special FINAL CRISIS one-shot honoring the passing of a great hero who’s been a staple in the DC Universe for years. All that remains is one final memory that the League experiences together as they must fulfill his last wishes or die trying!
I have a guess as to who this might be but am hoping I'm wrong.
FINAL CRISIS: ROGUES’ REVENGE #1
The critically-acclaimed FLASH team of writer Geoff Johns and artist Scott Kolins reunites for a tale of villainy and twisted justice tying in to FINAL CRISIS! Captain Cold and the Rogues were accessories to the murder of Bart Allen. They’ve become what they never set out to be – wanted! Wanted by the good guys, by former Rogue Pied Piper, and by the Secret Society of Super-Villains. But just as they try to disappear underground, good, old-fashioned revenge yanks them back. And where is the Flash during all of this? It’s a Crisis — take a guess.
Well, I know now why Piper was in Countdown: to get me to buy this book.
HUNTRESS: YEAR ONE #5-6
Driven to uncover a mob conspiracy in Gotham, Huntress runs afoul of Batman — and teaming up with Catwoman doesn’t score her any points with him, either! Then, in the miniseries’ finale, the gripping origin story concludes! Huntress tackles a deadly plot to blow up Gotham City and forces a fateful rematch with her family’s killer!
It's a mini. I rarely quit getting minis. Still, "Huntress runs afoul of Batman" isn't exactly new territory (well, it is because this is a "Year One," but you know what I mean).
TITANS #4
The conclusion of the team’s first adventure features the return of their deadliest foe and the sacrifice of one of the Titans! Will the Sons of Trigon live up to their father’s expectations?
Well, I've got to admit that of the Titans' classic villans, Trigon never did interest me much. Still, getting it over early for this series, right? (Right?)
BATGIRL #1
Now that Batgirl has finally gained Batman’s trust, it’s time to conquer her inner demons and prove herself to the rest of the world. This six-issue epic will take Cassandra on an intense, personal journey involving friends, family and foes!
The thirteen-year-old wants this one.
DETECTIVE COMICS #846
A “Batman: R.I.P.” issue — and part 1 of the 5-part story “The Return of Hush!”
Readers who were surprised by Catwoman’s return last month haven’t see anything yet as Hush makes a dramatic return to the life of Batman. What will this mean for Bruce Wayne? This epic story kicks off the countdown to DETECTIVE #850!
Getting it just for the duration of the "Return of Hush" storyline.
BIRDS OF PREY #120
Oracle’s having a hard time explaining why she has moved so near Black Canary’s homebase — especially when the rest of the Birds find out that Barbara’s been employing a mysterious new operative: the enigmatic Infinity!
So far, so good with this one.
GREEN LANTERN CORPS #26
It’s the action-packed conclusion of “Ring Quest”! Kyle, Guy, Sodam Yat, Arisia, Soranik and other members of the Green Lantern Corps wage an all-out battle against Mongul and the mysterious Mother Mercy.
Again, nothing to complain about on this title.
JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA ANNUAL #1
“Welcome to Earth-2!” Power Girl has made a life for herself on our world, as a member and chairwoman of the Justice Society of America and as a hero in her own right.
But she’s never stopped dreaming of one day returning to her Earth — the parallel world where the members of the Justice Society were the only heroes. Where her best friend was Helena Wayne, the daughter of Batman. And where evil was a little easier to fight…wasn’t it? As her greatest wish comes true, Power Girl’s about to find herself back on Earth-2, surrounded by friends she thought she’d lost forever.
I'm quite looking forward to this one, both because of the Power Girl focus and the Earth-2 aspect.
WONDER WOMAN #22
“Ends of the Earth” Part 3 of 4! Trapped on a world where her powers have betrayed her and brutal combat rules the day, Wonder Woman struggles to survive long enough to complete her unholy quest. But will victory cost Wonder Woman her soul? Featuring the long-awaited return of some of the most savage characters in DCU history, not to mention all-out war between Diana’s Gorilla Knights and the Department of Metahuman Affairs!
Gorillas are always good.
SCOOBY-DOO #134
The first official Scooby issue of the summer is here! Daphne’s got some fashion tips, and Shaggy’s got some tips of his own — like, if there’s a full moon, stay inside!
For the nine-year-old, of course. :)
In month two of TRINITY, Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman — alongside their Justice League teammates — cross paths with the mysterious Konvikt and learn more about their fated connection within the DC Universe!
This month’s co-features focus on Hawkman, Gangbuster, John Stewart and the intriguing new psychic known as Tarot!
Well, since I'm mainly interested in this because of the "co-features" I may not be getting them all (oh, who am I kidding?), and am pleased to see John Stewart on the list this time.
FINAL CRISIS #3
Batman missing in action! Superman immobilized! Green Lantern on trial for his life!
A shadow is falling across Earth’s super heroes — and now it’s Wonder Woman’s turn to face the Evil Gods!
What bizarre warning from beyond awaits Frankenstein, The Question and the agents of S.H.A.D.E. in the shadows of the Dark Side Club? What grim fate lies in store for The Human Flame? What happens when the Anti-Life Equation hits the internet? Can the Fastest Men Alive outrun The Black Racer — Death himself? And who are the Justifiers?
Wonder which Green Lantern is on trial for his life. I'm assuming Hal, because that's who they usually mean when they don't specify. And the Question, cool!
FINAL CRISIS: REQUIEM #1
A very special FINAL CRISIS one-shot honoring the passing of a great hero who’s been a staple in the DC Universe for years. All that remains is one final memory that the League experiences together as they must fulfill his last wishes or die trying!
I have a guess as to who this might be but am hoping I'm wrong.
FINAL CRISIS: ROGUES’ REVENGE #1
The critically-acclaimed FLASH team of writer Geoff Johns and artist Scott Kolins reunites for a tale of villainy and twisted justice tying in to FINAL CRISIS! Captain Cold and the Rogues were accessories to the murder of Bart Allen. They’ve become what they never set out to be – wanted! Wanted by the good guys, by former Rogue Pied Piper, and by the Secret Society of Super-Villains. But just as they try to disappear underground, good, old-fashioned revenge yanks them back. And where is the Flash during all of this? It’s a Crisis — take a guess.
Well, I know now why Piper was in Countdown: to get me to buy this book.
HUNTRESS: YEAR ONE #5-6
Driven to uncover a mob conspiracy in Gotham, Huntress runs afoul of Batman — and teaming up with Catwoman doesn’t score her any points with him, either! Then, in the miniseries’ finale, the gripping origin story concludes! Huntress tackles a deadly plot to blow up Gotham City and forces a fateful rematch with her family’s killer!
It's a mini. I rarely quit getting minis. Still, "Huntress runs afoul of Batman" isn't exactly new territory (well, it is because this is a "Year One," but you know what I mean).
TITANS #4
The conclusion of the team’s first adventure features the return of their deadliest foe and the sacrifice of one of the Titans! Will the Sons of Trigon live up to their father’s expectations?
Well, I've got to admit that of the Titans' classic villans, Trigon never did interest me much. Still, getting it over early for this series, right? (Right?)
BATGIRL #1
Now that Batgirl has finally gained Batman’s trust, it’s time to conquer her inner demons and prove herself to the rest of the world. This six-issue epic will take Cassandra on an intense, personal journey involving friends, family and foes!
The thirteen-year-old wants this one.
DETECTIVE COMICS #846
A “Batman: R.I.P.” issue — and part 1 of the 5-part story “The Return of Hush!”
Readers who were surprised by Catwoman’s return last month haven’t see anything yet as Hush makes a dramatic return to the life of Batman. What will this mean for Bruce Wayne? This epic story kicks off the countdown to DETECTIVE #850!
Getting it just for the duration of the "Return of Hush" storyline.
BIRDS OF PREY #120
Oracle’s having a hard time explaining why she has moved so near Black Canary’s homebase — especially when the rest of the Birds find out that Barbara’s been employing a mysterious new operative: the enigmatic Infinity!
So far, so good with this one.
GREEN LANTERN CORPS #26
It’s the action-packed conclusion of “Ring Quest”! Kyle, Guy, Sodam Yat, Arisia, Soranik and other members of the Green Lantern Corps wage an all-out battle against Mongul and the mysterious Mother Mercy.
Again, nothing to complain about on this title.
JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA ANNUAL #1
“Welcome to Earth-2!” Power Girl has made a life for herself on our world, as a member and chairwoman of the Justice Society of America and as a hero in her own right.
But she’s never stopped dreaming of one day returning to her Earth — the parallel world where the members of the Justice Society were the only heroes. Where her best friend was Helena Wayne, the daughter of Batman. And where evil was a little easier to fight…wasn’t it? As her greatest wish comes true, Power Girl’s about to find herself back on Earth-2, surrounded by friends she thought she’d lost forever.
I'm quite looking forward to this one, both because of the Power Girl focus and the Earth-2 aspect.
WONDER WOMAN #22
“Ends of the Earth” Part 3 of 4! Trapped on a world where her powers have betrayed her and brutal combat rules the day, Wonder Woman struggles to survive long enough to complete her unholy quest. But will victory cost Wonder Woman her soul? Featuring the long-awaited return of some of the most savage characters in DCU history, not to mention all-out war between Diana’s Gorilla Knights and the Department of Metahuman Affairs!
Gorillas are always good.
SCOOBY-DOO #134
The first official Scooby issue of the summer is here! Daphne’s got some fashion tips, and Shaggy’s got some tips of his own — like, if there’s a full moon, stay inside!
For the nine-year-old, of course. :)
Monday, April 14, 2008
Sunday, April 13, 2008
All the cool sidekicks were doing it...
So it turns out that Winter Soldier Bucky Barnes wasn't the only young Invader to come under the control of the Russians after World War II.
In this 1953 story called "The Return of the Human Torch," original android Torch Jim Hammond returns from the apparently-dead to discover that his own young partner had undergone a similar fate. This being the Golden(or was it Silver by then?) age, Toro was back to his old self in under two pages.
In this 1953 story called "The Return of the Human Torch," original android Torch Jim Hammond returns from the apparently-dead to discover that his own young partner had undergone a similar fate. This being the Golden(or was it Silver by then?) age, Toro was back to his old self in under two pages.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Okay, now I'm impatient
Just saw this preview of Captain America 37.
Knocked Titans into second place on my Can't Wait For This! list, I'll tell you that! :)
The end of the month is going to be a long time in coming...
Knocked Titans into second place on my Can't Wait For This! list, I'll tell you that! :)
The end of the month is going to be a long time in coming...
Friday, April 11, 2008
Ah, well
I was sorry to see all the negative reviews of the new Titans book. Not so much because I think it means that I won't care for it--I think we all know by now that I get a lot of fun out of some comics most folks consider crappy--but because it doesn't bode well for the future of the book. It's possible, of course, that I won't like it. Guess I'll find out in a few weeks. I'm still very interested in seeing how the dynamic among those particular characters works once they're taken out of the young-heroes-learning-their-trade thing.
I'm also wondering how often this title will tie into the regular Teen Titans book, because we get that as trades and therefore would always be a bit behind.
I'm also wondering how often this title will tie into the regular Teen Titans book, because we get that as trades and therefore would always be a bit behind.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
One less comic to buy
We're dropping the new Superfriends book. The nine-year-old doesn't care much for it, and there's sure no way anyone else here is going to read it. I'm not sure I'd call it disappointing--I thought it looked like a cute idea for a book the kid might like, but she doesn't. I think it's probably aimed at kids a bit younger, actually, but even so it's so lacking in charm that I don't think I'd recommend it to friends with younger kids, either.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Does this sash make my butt look big?
My .02 on the whole Doom-calling-Carol-Danvers-nasty-names thing:
I agree that that whole speech doesn't sound quite Doomlike, but I think a lot of it is really just vocabulary.
Well, apart from the "fat piece of furniture" thing--Doom usually comments on things where he feels superior to his foes, and any aspect of physical appearance isn't really one of those. (Well, maybe he'd go that way with Ben Grimm, but that's partly because he knows that's a sore point. If he's calling Ms. Marvel fat, it's because he thinks that she thinks that, and I don't think there's any sign that he does.)
I've heard folks say that Doom wouldn't say such things to a woman, that Doom is relatively chivalrous to women--but you know, and of course I'm just thinking off the top of my head here, usually when he's being all polite and offering the ladies wine and so forth, it's when he's got them prisoner in his castle. The male members of the team are maybe in the dungeon. He's not in any immediate personal potential danger. So he invites the lady of the team for dinner in his fabulous dining room. It's a show of power. Also an indication that he doesn't really consider her a threat (so at least sexist, if not necessarily misogynistic).
He's less...courteous in the heat of battle, and he seems to be in that mindset here. I gather, though, that his speech is supposed to reflect his uncertainty in this situation, and therefore has a narrative purpose (although I think it's debatable whether Doom would ever be at a loss for just the right words under any circumstances).
Oh, and Wonder Man? "You're not fat!" says he to Carol. Simon, apparently, does think that Carol thinks she's fat.
As a side-note, I don't think that it's unreasonable for some super-types to have a few body issues. Particularly someone like Carol, who has (in her own book) been portrayed as concerned with her public image, even hiring someone to deal with public relations for her. People do, especially those who spend a lot of time in the limelight. Now, if it were Black Widow who was shown wondering about this stuff, I'd cry foul. But Carol? Not inconsistent with the way she's been written over the last few years.
I agree that that whole speech doesn't sound quite Doomlike, but I think a lot of it is really just vocabulary.
Well, apart from the "fat piece of furniture" thing--Doom usually comments on things where he feels superior to his foes, and any aspect of physical appearance isn't really one of those. (Well, maybe he'd go that way with Ben Grimm, but that's partly because he knows that's a sore point. If he's calling Ms. Marvel fat, it's because he thinks that she thinks that, and I don't think there's any sign that he does.)
I've heard folks say that Doom wouldn't say such things to a woman, that Doom is relatively chivalrous to women--but you know, and of course I'm just thinking off the top of my head here, usually when he's being all polite and offering the ladies wine and so forth, it's when he's got them prisoner in his castle. The male members of the team are maybe in the dungeon. He's not in any immediate personal potential danger. So he invites the lady of the team for dinner in his fabulous dining room. It's a show of power. Also an indication that he doesn't really consider her a threat (so at least sexist, if not necessarily misogynistic).
He's less...courteous in the heat of battle, and he seems to be in that mindset here. I gather, though, that his speech is supposed to reflect his uncertainty in this situation, and therefore has a narrative purpose (although I think it's debatable whether Doom would ever be at a loss for just the right words under any circumstances).
Oh, and Wonder Man? "You're not fat!" says he to Carol. Simon, apparently, does think that Carol thinks she's fat.
As a side-note, I don't think that it's unreasonable for some super-types to have a few body issues. Particularly someone like Carol, who has (in her own book) been portrayed as concerned with her public image, even hiring someone to deal with public relations for her. People do, especially those who spend a lot of time in the limelight. Now, if it were Black Widow who was shown wondering about this stuff, I'd cry foul. But Carol? Not inconsistent with the way she's been written over the last few years.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Do I want it?
My first thought on seeing this (there are bigger pics at Major Spoilers) was something like "I must have this."
Then I started to think about it. Must I?
On the yes side, Winter Soldier/Bucky/Cap is a favorite character these days.
On the no side, I'd so much rather have him in the Winter Soldier outfit.
On the yes side, what are the chances of finding him in any outfit if this is already available?
On the no side, the face looks wrong...although that's certainly not a first for action figures.
Also on the no side, he's a 7-inch figure and all my other figures are around 6 inches. That's actually kind of important. Action figures do not exist in a vacuum, after all, at least not around here. They need to be able to interact with other action figures. And this guy, if anything, should be a bit shorter than most of the others, right?
So, still undecided.
Then I started to think about it. Must I?
On the yes side, Winter Soldier/Bucky/Cap is a favorite character these days.
On the no side, I'd so much rather have him in the Winter Soldier outfit.
On the yes side, what are the chances of finding him in any outfit if this is already available?
On the no side, the face looks wrong...although that's certainly not a first for action figures.
Also on the no side, he's a 7-inch figure and all my other figures are around 6 inches. That's actually kind of important. Action figures do not exist in a vacuum, after all, at least not around here. They need to be able to interact with other action figures. And this guy, if anything, should be a bit shorter than most of the others, right?
So, still undecided.
Monday, April 07, 2008
Every cloud has a silver lining, every silver lining has a cloud
The husband commented on the art in the new Wonder Woman yesterday, saying that WW was "too scrawny" and had huge doe eyes. He was disappointed to learn that the old artist is now gone to Marvel (although since he has a strong preference for Marvel, I'm guessing not terribly so).
I thought the new art was all right, but he's right, Diana didn't look nearly buff enough.
He was cheered up considerably to hear that the new WW artist will be Aaron Lopresti, who currently draws Ms. Marvel. Of course that comes at the price of him no longer drawing Ms. Marvel :(.
I thought the new art was all right, but he's right, Diana didn't look nearly buff enough.
He was cheered up considerably to hear that the new WW artist will be Aaron Lopresti, who currently draws Ms. Marvel. Of course that comes at the price of him no longer drawing Ms. Marvel :(.
Sunday, April 06, 2008
Looking forward to this even more now
The new comic I'm most looking forward to these days is Titans. Not because of this preview, although that looks all right. But...I'd assumed that this would be a temporary-at-best gathering of old friends, which would have been fine by me. What it says in the preview is:
So, I didn't know it was an ongoing, and it is, which is pretty cool. And there's the potential for seeing at least part of the old New Teen Titans (which I read back in the eighties) together on a regular basis. I'm assuming that it won't be a case of reuniting the old group (though that would be neat as well) but I'm thinking that I'll like it. Although the "old, dead friends" bit does make me worry some...
A new team of Titans is born in the extra-sized first issue of a new ongoing monthly...! Someone or something is continuing its attack on anyone who’s ever been a Titan, including Nightwing, Starfire, Donna Troy, Beast Boy and Raven. You won’t want to miss this new startling chapter in Titans history that may forge a new team from the ashes of old, dead friends.
So, I didn't know it was an ongoing, and it is, which is pretty cool. And there's the potential for seeing at least part of the old New Teen Titans (which I read back in the eighties) together on a regular basis. I'm assuming that it won't be a case of reuniting the old group (though that would be neat as well) but I'm thinking that I'll like it. Although the "old, dead friends" bit does make me worry some...
Saturday, April 05, 2008
Captain America #36 [Spoilers]
Just so you know, this comic could just as easily have been called "Wow, the Black Widow is Totally Awesome!" :)
Anyway, this book is still the best thing I get, month after month. It's the first thing I read. (In fairness I must confess that the second thing is Countdown, so this has less to do with guaranteed quality than with a certain "can't wait to see what the hell happened!" thing. But still.) It's the first thing the husband reads. The kids...well, you know about the kids. Eight-year-old reads it, thirteen-year-old doesn't.
So. Great fight scene. Great new-Cap-getting-in-over-his-head scene. Great Black-Widow-to-the-rescue scene. Great this-is-not-your-father-s-Captain-America scene. Great Bucky-tries-to-inspire-the-masses scene (where the shield proves useful when the masses start throwing things!). The Red Skull laughs villainously, Tony Stark continues to dig himself into a deeper hole with the government, and Sharon Carter finally manages to break away from Faustus (we hope). It's the threat to her baby that does it, which I find realistic--she hasn't really had a lot of interest in preserving her own life since she shot Steve, but the baby? That's different.
I will say that, from reading the internet, there was one thing I thought I might not care for--the kiss between Black Widow and Bucky/Cap when she left. I couldn't imagine a way it could have been done that wouldn't have had me rolling my eyes a bit. Well, it turned out to be a pretty cool moment. They're talking. She tells him that she won't be seeing much of him now that the "new Captain America" has gone public (and, presumably, now that she's more confident of his ability to pull it off--and, possibly, now that she's observed him long enough that Stark can trust him with the shield?). He's clearly very disappointed. She thinks for a moment, realizing what her absence is going to do to his morale. She says "Do you remember it all? Our time together, when I was young?" They talk a bit about it and about why Bucky/Cap is taking on this challenge, and she kisses him good-bye ("Until we fight together again...A l ittle something to let you know I haven't forgotten, either.") and leaves. It works--he seems considerably more cheerful.
So, why that was good instead of lame? (Which such a scene could so, so easily have been?) The Widow maintains her...well, Black Widow-ness, for lack of an existing term. She really does need to leave the book because, while Cap/Bucky may be a better fighter than she is, she is clearly far more competent in other ways. (Well, she's a lot older, has had a lot more experience, it makes sense that she would be.) If she's around, she'll continue to run to his rescue, which won't do much for developing him as a new Cap (or even a better hero). But, mainly, it's not a romantic scene. It's a reasoned response on Natasha's part, and works regardless of her actual feelings for him. I have no idea whether she has any interest in him beyond friendship at this point (hell, I have no idea whether she's got a relationship going in any other title these days), but it was at the very least a kind gesture, and made perfect sense for the character in that situation. I'm impressed.
Anyway, this book is still the best thing I get, month after month. It's the first thing I read. (In fairness I must confess that the second thing is Countdown, so this has less to do with guaranteed quality than with a certain "can't wait to see what the hell happened!" thing. But still.) It's the first thing the husband reads. The kids...well, you know about the kids. Eight-year-old reads it, thirteen-year-old doesn't.
So. Great fight scene. Great new-Cap-getting-in-over-his-head scene. Great Black-Widow-to-the-rescue scene. Great this-is-not-your-father-s-Captain-America scene. Great Bucky-tries-to-inspire-the-masses scene (where the shield proves useful when the masses start throwing things!). The Red Skull laughs villainously, Tony Stark continues to dig himself into a deeper hole with the government, and Sharon Carter finally manages to break away from Faustus (we hope). It's the threat to her baby that does it, which I find realistic--she hasn't really had a lot of interest in preserving her own life since she shot Steve, but the baby? That's different.
I will say that, from reading the internet, there was one thing I thought I might not care for--the kiss between Black Widow and Bucky/Cap when she left. I couldn't imagine a way it could have been done that wouldn't have had me rolling my eyes a bit. Well, it turned out to be a pretty cool moment. They're talking. She tells him that she won't be seeing much of him now that the "new Captain America" has gone public (and, presumably, now that she's more confident of his ability to pull it off--and, possibly, now that she's observed him long enough that Stark can trust him with the shield?). He's clearly very disappointed. She thinks for a moment, realizing what her absence is going to do to his morale. She says "Do you remember it all? Our time together, when I was young?" They talk a bit about it and about why Bucky/Cap is taking on this challenge, and she kisses him good-bye ("Until we fight together again...A l ittle something to let you know I haven't forgotten, either.") and leaves. It works--he seems considerably more cheerful.
So, why that was good instead of lame? (Which such a scene could so, so easily have been?) The Widow maintains her...well, Black Widow-ness, for lack of an existing term. She really does need to leave the book because, while Cap/Bucky may be a better fighter than she is, she is clearly far more competent in other ways. (Well, she's a lot older, has had a lot more experience, it makes sense that she would be.) If she's around, she'll continue to run to his rescue, which won't do much for developing him as a new Cap (or even a better hero). But, mainly, it's not a romantic scene. It's a reasoned response on Natasha's part, and works regardless of her actual feelings for him. I have no idea whether she has any interest in him beyond friendship at this point (hell, I have no idea whether she's got a relationship going in any other title these days), but it was at the very least a kind gesture, and made perfect sense for the character in that situation. I'm impressed.
Friday, April 04, 2008
Why not?
Newsarama has an article up asking comic creators what they'd like to see in terms of marketing comics to potential new readers. Mostly it's the usual thing of this sort, but one quote jumped out at me:
He doesn't necessarily advocate changing superhero comics--more like diversifying into different genres--but you know, you don't often hear a comic creator suggesting that the audience could be more than the typical comic fan. That's a plus, right?
Oh, and also from that article:
DC used to do that! I've still got some of the digest-sized comics I read as a kid--Supergirl and Superboy and the Legion of Superheroes--and I've got to assume that I got them at a grocery or party store. I'm pretty sure they were reprints of full-sized comics, but they definitely had them.
Brian Reed (The Circle, Ms. Marvel, Captain Marvel, Secret Initiative: Who Do You Trust?, Red Sonja): I'd like to see the comic industry learn the lesson Nintendo has been teaching the games industry for the last couple of years-- the hardcore audience exists, it is not going anywhere, it will always be with us... so why keep catering exclusively to them? There is a massive audience out there that is ripe for the picking, so let's go get them and all of the money they have, but do not yet realize they want to give to us.
He doesn't necessarily advocate changing superhero comics--more like diversifying into different genres--but you know, you don't often hear a comic creator suggesting that the audience could be more than the typical comic fan. That's a plus, right?
Oh, and also from that article:
Chuck Dixon (Batman and the Outsiders, Robin): I wish someone other than Archie would make a digest-sized comic for the "impulse" aisle at the supermarket [such as a] Batman/Superman or Spider-Man or Star Wars comic.
DC used to do that! I've still got some of the digest-sized comics I read as a kid--Supergirl and Superboy and the Legion of Superheroes--and I've got to assume that I got them at a grocery or party store. I'm pretty sure they were reprints of full-sized comics, but they definitely had them.
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Now that I've actually read it...
Well, I've read the newest Wonder Woman now--the one with the infamous "courting" scene--and I have to say that it's kind of cute. I like Wonder Woman in this scene. She's both direct and a little bit tentative--and, more to the point, once she decides that she's interested in pursuing a relationship with Nemesis, she doesn't wait around for him to do anything about it. No, she makes the first move. *
So, to me, this scene says a lot about Wonder Woman. Mainly, that it's in all areas of life that she is direct in going after what she thinks best (or just wants).
As for the cute, well, the scene could have easily been done with her showing not the least bit of trepidation. Being supercool about it. Her being a fearless Amazon and all. But the way it is--that she is a little nervous (and who wouldn't be after dealing with Silver Age Steve Trevor and his fragile ego for all those years?)--is better.
* Now, I'm a little older than a lot of the women who read comics these days. I'm not that old, but I'm old enough that, in all my dating history, I never once asked the guy out first. Always was asked, and said yes or no, depending. (Saying no sucked. I think I might have preferred being turned down to that. They always asked why. Why did they ask why? They had to know it wouldn't be good. But I digress...:)) I will grant that this may have had more to do with my own natural shyness, because I knew a few girls who did the first-to-ask-out thing, but most didn't. This wasn't so long ago that such a thing was frowned upon, but it wasn't expected. Is it now? I really don't know.
So, to me, this scene says a lot about Wonder Woman. Mainly, that it's in all areas of life that she is direct in going after what she thinks best (or just wants).
As for the cute, well, the scene could have easily been done with her showing not the least bit of trepidation. Being supercool about it. Her being a fearless Amazon and all. But the way it is--that she is a little nervous (and who wouldn't be after dealing with Silver Age Steve Trevor and his fragile ego for all those years?)--is better.
* Now, I'm a little older than a lot of the women who read comics these days. I'm not that old, but I'm old enough that, in all my dating history, I never once asked the guy out first. Always was asked, and said yes or no, depending. (Saying no sucked. I think I might have preferred being turned down to that. They always asked why. Why did they ask why? They had to know it wouldn't be good. But I digress...:)) I will grant that this may have had more to do with my own natural shyness, because I knew a few girls who did the first-to-ask-out thing, but most didn't. This wasn't so long ago that such a thing was frowned upon, but it wasn't expected. Is it now? I really don't know.
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Question for trade afficionados
Does anyone know whether Marvel is planning to keep putting Captain America out in trade paperback form? I'm asking because it seems to have been a long time since the last one, and if they're going to stop with the paperbacks and just do hardcovers, then fine, I'll get hardcovers (just it's a little annoying because they won't line up right with the trades I've already got, not that I'm anal or anything...).
I'm not really in a hurry because I already get the actual comics on a monthly basis--I get the trades because I tend to reread (mainly checking back to see the foreshadowing :))--but I'd like to know whether I should wait or not.
I'm not really in a hurry because I already get the actual comics on a monthly basis--I get the trades because I tend to reread (mainly checking back to see the foreshadowing :))--but I'd like to know whether I should wait or not.
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Spring break interlude
The thirteen-year-old is using some of her vacation time to design and make new furniture for the action figures. Here the Green Lanterns are enjoying their new picnic table.
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